Steel is the New Black: Introducing the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6007A

The Calatrava 6007A, a limited edition release, has hit the market.

June 26, 2020
By: Logan Hannen

After the wild success of their steel Weekly Calendar in 2019, we knew Patek Philippe would be following up with another unique and “unprecious” piece soon. That day has come and the Calatrava 6007A, a limited edition release, has hit the market.

But First

Source: Patek Philippe

The Specs
Case Diameter: 40mm
Case Thickness: 9.07mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 30 Meters
Strap/Bracelet: Rich Blue Embossed Calfskin
Movement: Patek Caliber 324 S C Automatic with Date

First we have the case, which is really the star of the show here. It isn’t too complex in terms of design, but it is beautifully executed in stainless steel which, though once a true rarity in the world of Patek dress watches, is becoming more common with each passing year. It’s executed entirely in high-polish, in keeping with the dressy feel of the Calatrava line, and is thin at only 9.07mm.

Source: Patek Philippe

Affixed to the case is a beautiful rich, almost Royal Blue calfskin strap that has been embossed in such a way that it resembles a canvas/textile strap. It gives the watch a much sportier aesthetic overall, matched in part by the dial, and yet being calf all the way through helps to ensure a more upscale feeling on the wrist.

Then there’s the dial, a mesmerizing blue with a cross-hatch pattern at center that helps break up the design a bit and offer something a bit more fun. “Fun” is not often the word you use to describe a Calatrava, but between this and the Weekly Calendar, it’s clear that the brand is growing more willing to experiment with their identity. The dial features applied, lumed Arabic numerals and a set of standard lume-filled stick hands live at the center of the dial.

Source: Patek Philippe

Powering the watch is the in-house Patek Philippe Caliber 324 S C, which can also be found in other popular models, including the Aquanaut. Its rotor is 21k yellow gold, and it features a 35-45 hour power reserve and beats at 28,800 BPH.

The Damage
The Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 6007A is limited to 1000 pieces and retails for $28,351.

The Take
I’m confused as to why the brand chose to pair decidedly sporty elements (like the checkerboard dial and textured strap) with such a conservative case. The attempt at balance has delivered what is, in my eyes, a lukewarm product.

I’m glad to be seeing more steel cases in their collection and I have no doubt that the 6007A will be sold out in a flash, but still, It fails to excite me.